Year 9 Darrabi/GIRLs Program News
GIRLs Program Celebrates a Successful First Semester
The GIRLs Program has enjoyed a busy and rewarding first semester, filled with opportunities for students to build confidence, develop new skills, and strengthen connections with their school and community.
Throughout the semester, students have participated in a range of engaging learning experiences designed to promote personal growth, teamwork, leadership, and resilience. A particular highlight has been our partnership with Brentwood Park Primary School, where students regularly visited classrooms to support younger learners. These visits allowed students to develop their communication and leadership skills while making meaningful contributions to the wider community.
A major highlight of the semester was the students' participation in The Summit Adventure Camp. Throughout the day, students challenged themselves through a range of exciting activities including the Leap of Faith, Flying Fox, Monster Course, and a variety of team-building challenges. Many students stepped well outside their comfort zones, demonstrating courage, resilience, and determination as they tackled activities that initially seemed daunting. The experience provided valuable opportunities for students to build confidence, develop trust in their peers, strengthen teamwork skills, and celebrate personal achievements. It was fantastic to see students encouraging one another and embracing new challenges with such enthusiasm.
As part of their History studies, students also participated in an excursion to the Shrine of Remembrance. This experience provided students with a deeper understanding of Australia's military history and the importance of preserving stories from the past. Students engaged thoughtfully with the exhibits and reflected on the significance of remembrance, sacrifice, and community connections.
Community service has remained a key focus of the program. Students proudly supported the Share the Dignity campaign, collecting and donating more than 40 handbags filled with essential self-care items for women experiencing hardship. The generosity shown by students, families, and staff was truly inspiring and demonstrated the program's strong commitment to giving back to the community.
Within the classroom, students have continued to develop their literacy, numeracy, STEAM, Health and Physical Education, and personal development skills through a hands-on and differentiated curriculum. Students have worked towards personal goals, reflected on their growth, and developed valuable life skills that will support them both at school and beyond.
We are incredibly proud of the progress our students have made throughout Semester One. Their willingness to challenge themselves, support one another, and contribute positively to their community has been outstanding. We look forward to building on these successes in Semester Two, with exciting opportunities such as City Camp, continued community partnerships, and further learning experiences still to come.
Ms Jacqueline Cooper
GIRLs Program Leader
Darrabi Program - Semester 1
Wilsons Promontory Hike
At the end of Term 1, the Darrabi Boys took on an unforgettable adventure at Wilsons Promontory, filled with challenge, growth, and connection.
Across three nights and four days, the boys pushed themselves physically and mentally while exploring some of Victoria’s most iconic landscapes. On the first day, the group tackled the hike to Roaring Meg, carrying full packs and learning quickly about resilience and teamwork. The second day brought another challenge with the trek to Little Waterloo Bay, followed by a visit to the historic lighthouse, where the boys were rewarded with breathtaking views across the coast. Later, they continued on to Refuge Cove, taking in the clear blue waters and the beauty of the natural surroundings. A standout moment on the final day was “Talk Time” on the beach, where the boys were able to reflect, connect, and share openly with one another.
The camp provided countless memories, but the biggest highlights were the bonds formed between the boys and, of course, the well-earned KFC stop on the trip home.
Term 2
This term, the boys visited Bunnings, where they worked together to build and paint shelves as part of the Doing Good in the Hood initiative, in partnership with St Vincent de Paul. These shelves were later donated through St Vincent de Paul to support a local family in need, reinforcing the importance of community service and helping others.
The boys recently participated in a workshop with Sarah, who shared insights into the realities of homelessness and the important support services St Vinnies provides. One powerful takeaway was understanding that homelessness can take many forms, including “couch surfing,” which opened up important discussions around empathy, awareness, and support.
The Darrabi Boys have also had the opportunity to hear from inspiring guest speakers who shared their personal journeys.
International dancer Gina Michael spoke to the boys about chasing dreams with purpose, emphasising that discipline, consistency, and hard work are essential ingredients for success. Her story encouraged the boys to reflect on their own goals and ambitions.
The boys also welcomed Mamoush from the Multicultural Youth Centre, who shared his powerful journey as a refugee from South Sudan. He spoke openly about the challenges of settling into a new country, finding his place at school, and the importance of belonging. Through his love of basketball and perseverance, he reminded the boys of the strength found in resilience and self-belief.
On Wednesday the 24th of August, the Darrabi students had an opportunity to help run Year 8 Sports day with the Year 11 VET students. They worked alongside VET students and staff, helping coordinate and coach activities, as well as cheer our Year 8 students on from the sidelines.
The Darrabi Boys continue to grow through experiences that challenge, inspire, and connect them to the wider community, with many more moments and opportunities in Term 3.
Miss Olanda Mossad
Darrabi Program Leader